We who preach the gospel must not think of ourselves as public relations agents sent to establish good will between Christ and the world. We must not imagine ourselves commissioned to make Christ acceptable to big business, the press, the world of sports or modern education. We are not diplomats but prophets, and our message is not a compromise but an ultimatum. A.W. Tozer
Therefore let God-inspired Scripture decide between us; and on whichever side be found doctrines in harmony with the word of God, in favor of that side will be cast the vote of truth. --Basil of Caesarea
Once you learn to discern, there's no going back. You will begin to spot the lie everywhere it appears.

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service. 1 Timothy 1:12

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Modern Hymns


“Speaking to yourselves in...spiritual songs” (Ephesians 5:19).  “Admonishing one another in...spiritual songs.” (Colossians 3:16).  To remember that we are spiritual, and must sing spiritual songs excludes a good deal of worldly trash from our repertoire.  These particular songs are those inspired by the Spirit and employed in the joyful and devotional expression of our spiritual life.  There are some who declare that the Psalms are alone inspired, and to be used as songs, but Paul’s reference to “psalms, and hymns and spiritual songs” excludes a narrow compass.
Many of our modern hymns and choruses are not worth the paper they are printed on.  They are purely doggerel, and nothing divine about them whatever.  
Herbert Lockyer, All the Doctrines of the Bible, p.115
I’d hate to see what Lockyer would be saying now, almost 50 years later!  So much of what passes for choruses are 24/7 jingles - 24 words said 7 times (or sometimes 7/24 - 7 words said 24 times!).
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